As dean for Academic Services and Registrar and president of the Faculty Senate, respectively, Arna Albritten and Laverne Luster hold two central positions at Albany State University. Their leadership prowess is incessantly placed on display for the advancement of the institution.

These same leadership skills have now earned them selection in the University System of Georgia 2009-2010 Executive Leadership Institute. ASU President Dr. Everette J. Freeman chose Albritten and Luster to participate in this pilot program designed to increase their effectiveness as leaders for potential higher-level positions within the University System.

“It is an honor and a privilege,” Luster said about her selection. “It is an honor to know that the president thinks that highly of me to make that recommendation. I am really excited about it.”

Albritten and Luster are two of 72 high-ranking employees from the 35 institutions in the University System of Georgia selected as participants in the Executive Leadership Institute.

“I am grateful and excited to have been chosen as a participant in the initial class of the USG Executive Leadership Institute,” Albritten said. “My experiences will be used to enhance ASU activities as well as those in the USG. I look forward to working with future ELI participants.”

The Executive Leadership Institute is a comprehensive 100 hour development program conducted by leading experts in leadership. The Competency Model states that the goal of the Institute is “increased efficiency working as a system by developing exemplary leaders who advance the University System of Georgia in achieving its objectives.”

“When we start thinking about being an effective leader, we think about communication, being open to various viewpoints and listening to one another, and being able to work with people as a team player,” Luster said.

Albritten said she appreciates the fact that the institute focuses on “whole person development” through various interactive methods.

“I look forward to the cohort interaction throughout the six-month program culminating with the graduation,” she said.